What should be noted when constructing refractory castables during seasonal changes？

The matters needing attention during the construction of refractory castables vary with the seasons. The flexible control of on-site construction is very important, such as the amount of water added and the stirring time. If steel fiber castables are added, how should they be stirred?

The stirring time of refractory castables at the construction site is generally controlled within 8 minutes, that is, the material stirring time is 5 minutes, and the stirring time after adding water is 3 minutes. However, if the construction is carried out in summer and the temperature is too high, it can be stirred for 6 minutes, and then the material and water can be stirred for 3 minutes each. But if steel fiber is added to the castable, attention should be paid to the amount of water added. Adding too much water will not set, and adding a small amount of steel fiber will also not set well.

Under different temperature conditions, the binder in the refractory castable production process should be flexibly controlled. For instance, in summer, the amount of cement added as the binder of the refractory castable should not be too much, otherwise it will cause the phenomenon of rapid setting. At the construction site, the proportion of water added should only be 2% more than the water addition ratio specified in the construction manual. If it is too much, it will affect the later usage strength.

What should I do if too much water is added and the coagulation is too fast? Just do not add too much water. Add about 0.02% retarder appropriately to meet the construction requirements. However, a little silica fume can also be added appropriately to enhance fluidity. Never just add water or, as is often popular in the market, add some white sugar. Even if white sugar is added, it can only be less than 0.01%. Excessive use will affect the strength and the quality of the refractory castable (it is best not to use it).

In conclusion, as the seasons change, as a manufacturer of castable materials, it is necessary to make appropriate adjustments to the binder and not remain unchanged. It should be determined based on the actual situation to meet the requirements of use and construction.